U.S. patent number 8,281,732 [Application Number 12/562,376] was granted by the patent office on 2012-10-09 for boat conversion towers.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Pipe Welders, Inc.. Invention is credited to Trey Irvine.
United States Patent |
8,281,732 |
Irvine |
October 9, 2012 |
Boat conversion towers
Abstract
A boat tower conversion kit for converting from a half tower to
a full tower without the need for complete removal and/or
destruction of the original half tower. A custom hard top
incorporates a central core platform with several integral
reinforcing plates. The plates provide structural support for the
later expansion of the half tower by adding the upper tower section
and upper platform(s). Leg members and ladder members of the upper
and lower tower sections automatically mate with one-another in
coaxial alignment, and are structurally secured to one-another
through the interfacing integral reinforcing plates. Integral
channels, wiring conduits and tubes provide for electrical wiring,
electrical and mechanical components in conjunction with the custom
platform core.
Inventors: |
Irvine; Trey (Weston, FL) |
Assignee: |
Pipe Welders, Inc. (Ft.
Lauderdale, FL)
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Family
ID: |
46964143 |
Appl.
No.: |
12/562,376 |
Filed: |
September 18, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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11741967 |
Apr 30, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
114/364;
114/343 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63B
83/00 (20200101); B63B 15/00 (20130101); B63B
2003/145 (20130101); B63B 2017/026 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
B63B
35/44 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;D12/317
;114/357,343,364,361,255,65R,85,71 ;182/115-126 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
Other References
Chesapeake Bay article, Feb. 2000 article on the "Davis 50
Sportfisherman". cited by other.
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Primary Examiner: Swinehart; Edwin
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Malin Haley DiMaggio Bowen &
Lhota, P.A.
Parent Case Text
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This Continuation In Part application claims priority on and from
U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 11/741,967, entitled
Convertible Boat Tower filed on Apr. 30, 2007.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method for converting a boat tower from a half tower to a full
tower comprising the following steps: providing a bottom half tower
structure and an upper tower structure each structure comprising:
platform for covering an area of the boat; one or more ladders for
supporting said platform, said ladders having one or more mounts at
their base; one or more legs for further supporting said platform;
at least said platform of said bottom half tower structure further
having one or more integral reinforcement plates for receiving and
supporting said upper tower structure; at least said platform of
said bottom half tower structure further having one or more
passages for boat occupants to reach said platform, said passages
including cut-out sections; wherein said passages are positioned
adjacent to said ladders; setting said upper tower structure on top
of the bottom tower structure; aligning said mounts of said ladders
of the upper tower structure with the ladders of said bottom half
tower structure over said cut-out sections in said platform of the
bottom tower structure; aligning said legs of the upper tower
structure with the legs of said bottom half tower structure; and
securing said mounts of said ladders of the upper tower structure
to the ladders of said bottom half tower structure and securing
said legs of the upper tower structure to the legs of said bottom
half tower structure.
2. A full tower conversion for a boat, comprising a convertible
half tower comprising a first platform, at least one first ladder
for supporting said first platform, and at least one first leg for
supporting said first platform; wherein said half tower is adapted
to receive and support one or more additional tower sections
without the need for removal of the half tower from the boat or
destruction thereof; wherein at least one of said additional tower
sections comprises a second platform covering said first platform,
at least one second ladder for supporting said second platform, and
at least one second leg for supporting said second platform; said
at least one second ladder mating to and being generally coaxially
aligned with said at least one first ladder and mounted between
said first and second platforms; said at least one second leg
mating to and being generally coaxially aligned with said at least
one first leg and mounted between said first and second platforms;
and said first platform further having one or more integral
reinforcement plates for receiving and supporting said second tower
section.
3. The fall tower conversion of claim 2, wherein said platform
comprises an upper skin, a lower skin and an internal core; said
integral reinforcement plates are secured within said internal core
of said platform, wherein a first integral reinforcement plate is
interposed between said first and second ladders and a second
integral reinforcement plate is interposed between said first and
second legs; said first integral reinforcement plate and said first
and second ladders are structurally secured to one another, and are
generally coaxially aligned; and said second integral reinforcement
plate and said first and second legs are structurally secured to
one another, and are generally coaxially aligned.
4. The full tower conversion of claim 3 wherein said first platform
further comprises one or more passages for boat occupants to reach
said platform, wherein said one or more passages are positioned
adjacent to said first and second ladders.
5. The full tower conversion of claim 3, comprising two of said
first ladders, two of said second ladders, two of said first legs,
and two of said second legs.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to the boating industry
towers for marine vessels, and more specifically to a novel,
convertible boat tower which allows a boat owner to add an enhanced
and elevated tower section to an existing half-tower.
2. Description of Related Art
The boating industry has several types of towers to be used on
boats such as Tuna Towers, Marlin Towers.RTM., half towers, bimini
hard tops, and the like. Several towers are removable, and it is
possible for a boat owner or user to reconfigure or change the
shape and size of the tower on the boat. However, at present, this
task is expensive and requires the user to completely remove the
existing tower structure from the boat in order to add the new
tower of a different design. This is time consuming, cumbersome,
and expensive, as it requires the destruction of the old tower,
complete design and manufacture of the new tower, as well as
substantial fiberglass or structural work to the hull of boat. The
old tower support pads and securing hardware must be removed, the
fiberglass and gel coats repaired, and new support structure must
be installed to secure and accommodate the new tower. The prior art
only tangentially has addressed similar problems:
U.S. Pat. No. 6,988,461 issued to James on Jan. 24, 2006 entitled
TELESCOPING BOAT TOWER APPARATUS teaches a telescoping boat tower
attachable to the deck of a boat with the lower part attached to a
boat deck and the upper part positioned above the console of a
boat. The upper part is slidably movable vertically with respect to
the lower frame assembly through the use of pressurized fluid
pumps. The James patent is permanently mounted to the boat in its
complete structure.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,725,799 issued to Tull on Apr. 27, 2004 entitled
CUSTOMIZABLE BOAT T-TOP AND METHOD OF INSTALLATION teaches an
adjustable structure that allows for the installation of a rigid
T-top in a variety of configurations. Once the structure is
installed, it is unalterable without the complete removal of the
structure from the boat.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,590,616 issued to Vera on Jan. 7, 1997 entitled
SURF BOAT teaches a watercraft with two or more pontoons and at
least three columns and more than one deck. The SURF BOAT does not
mount to the deck of a boat, but it sits directly in water and
provides a surface on which another object may sit.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,724,595 issued to Green on Apr. 3, 1973 entitled
TUNA TOWER teaches specifically a tuna tower composed of opposing
ladder sub-assemblies fixed to the gunwalls of a boat. The tuna
tower is prefabricated and adjustable to fit a variety of sizes of
boats. The TUNA TOWER is one complete structure and may not be
altered in size or use once installed.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,948,587 issued to Griffiths on Sep. 27, 2005
entitled PORTABLE ELEVATED PLATFORM teaches a cart that can be
pulled by a car or all terrain vehicle. It is capable of being
converted into a free-standing elevated platform, a supported
elevated platform, and a transportable cart configuration. One of
the legs of the cart may be used as a ladder. The cart is to be
used on land and does not suggest use in conjunction with a
boat.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,604,606 issued to McDougal et al. on Aug. 12, 2003
entitled PORTABLE UTILITY STAND teaches a portable utility stand
that attaches removably to a small vehicle such as a golf cart. It
has a lower portion that is permanently attached to the vehicle and
an upper portion that is pivotally attached to the lower portion.
The upper portion may be adjusted to the desired height and
position. It is not suggested that the stand is designed to be used
in conjunction with boats.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,297,844 issued to Haustein on Mar. 29, 1994
entitled REMOVABLE CAB AND STAND FOR ALL TERRAIN VEHICLES TEACHES a
cab or stand that is attachable and removable from the front and
rear racks of an all terrain vehicle. It is contemplated that this
stand is used for observation or hunting. It is not suggested that
the stand be used in conjunction with boats.
U.K. Patent Application GB 2,170,854 A filed by Goldsmith published
on Aug. 13, 1986 entitled A PLATFORM INCORPORATING SECTIONAL
SUPPORTS teaches a platform with a trapezoidal platform support on
an upwardly tapering construction of sectional support members. The
platform has parallel long front and short rear edges. The platform
has one structure and is not intended for use on boats.
Accordingly, what is needed in the art is an improved tower
structure for a boat that can be converted from an existing half
tower into a full tower of varying designs, without completely
removing or destroying the old tower structure from the boat. In
the instant solution to this problem, provides a novel half tower
being design specifically to provide for future additions of
elevated tower sections, avoiding the waste of hardware and
fiberglass components, and seamlessly integrating with the new
tower sections.
It is, therefore, to the effective resolution of the aforementioned
problems and shortcomings of the prior art that the present
invention is directed. However, in view of the boat tower and stand
designs in existence at the time the present invention was created,
it was not obvious to those persons of ordinary skill in the
pertinent art and marine industry as to how the identified needs
could be fulfilled.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is in response to the above stated desires in the boating
industry that the present invention was contemplated. In the marine
industry, half towers are mounted generally above the cockpit and
helm deck areas of the boat, and include bimini hard tops. The hard
tops can be fabricated using foam core fiberglass or fiberglass
layers with aluminum reinforcements, and with internal wire or
conduit runs. The hard top is supported by aluminum tubing or metal
composites, including brushed or anodized finishes. The aluminum
tubing can be rectangular or cylindrical in cross-section, and
alternatively steel or other metal composites can be utilized. The
fiberglass tops can include options, such as molded instrument
boxes, overhead lockers, molded radar, satellite and/or antenna
pods, as well as molded Navigation/Stern lights. The hard tops can
be constructed in appropriate thickness and strength of materials
as to constitute standing platforms for use as observation towers
or fishing platforms, in addition to supporting radar, satellite,
outrigger or other equipment.
Tuna Towers are full height and dual platform towers, with a gap of
at least four (4) between the lower bimini or bridge roof platform,
and the higher standing/navigation platform. These towers also
include and elevated control console and operator area, which can
in turn be protected by a third sunshade or roof platform, as
hereinafter described. An assortment of aluminum or steel members,
legs, arms, support frames, ladders, struts, flanges, pads and/or
pods typically support the tower platform and provide other
functional equipment as well.
However, heretofore, half towers, Marlin Towers.RTM., and Tuna
Towers have been separate, independent and dissimilar structures.
The marine industry has overlooked the problems associated with
removing and replacing an original half tower on a boat, with a
full tower at a later date. This is often a necessity for a boat
owner who, several years after the initial purchase, advances in
his/her seamanship, fishing or boating expertise, or desires, and
therefore wants to upgrade the vessel and purchase a full tower.
Conventional practice is to remove and discard the original half
tower, platform, aluminum tubes, support frames, legs and ladders,
and then repair the boat hull and deck. Thereafter, preparations
are made for retrofitting the new, full tower, which requires new
fiberglass cut-outs in the boat hull and deck, drilling for new
hardware, entirely new support pads, tower hardware, ladders, etc.
The labor and cost of materials is clearly substantial, as is the
waste in removing and discarding the old tower entirely, and
repairing the vessel.
The present invention is essentially a conversion kit which allows
a boat owner to retain and convert an existing half tower on a boat
to a full tower without the need for removal and destruction of the
original tower structure from the boat itself, and avoiding the
expensive and time consuming requirements for repairing the hull,
deck, and gunwales of the boat, as well as installing new support
hardware.
The conversion kit is comprised of two separate structures. The
first structure is the original specially designed half tower that
can be mounted to the deck of a boat through ladders which also
function as support members for the platform, and separate leg
members providing additional support. The ladders are most likely
mounted to the gunwales/gunnels at the aft section of the half
tower, or to a section of deck in the cockpit area. The leg frames
of the half tower are most likely mounted to the fore section
vessel, to any appropriately reinforced section of the bow or cabin
walls or upper deck. As in conventional practice, ladder or leg
members can be singular, or alternatively can have a plurality of
support members.
The half tower also has a platform structure that constitutes the
hard top over the cockpit and helm area, and that mounts to the top
of the ladders and the top of the leg members. The platform can be
manufactured from laminated fiberglass layers, composites, or can
comprise a one piece cored fiberglass top. In either case, a
separate tubular or rectangular metal frame corresponding generally
to the shape of the platform and inset from its periphery, provides
the horizontal framework to support and secure the platform itself.
The ladders and legs are secured to the horizontal framework in
conventional means, including welding, using hardware, or bonding
techniques. In alternative embodiments, the platform can include
integral reinforcement members within the molded fiberglass top,
such as metal plates or flanges, internal tubular or rectangular
metal braces, or the like. The half tower legs or ladders are then
secured directly to the hard top.
At the location where the ladders mount to the platform, there are
cut-out sections in the platform which provide generally
semi-circular insets or voids in the corner areas of the hard top
to allow a person climbing the ladder to upper levels to pass
through or around the platform unobstructed. The platforms can also
contain further voids, windows or holes in other areas, such as its
center, for mounting satellite or radar units, accessory
electronics or hardware, or the like.
The half tower with hard top is a complete tower, which a boat
owner could retain throughout the life of the vessel. If, however,
a full tower or tower addition is desired, the second tower section
is seamlessly and easily mounted to the original tower, such that
the two separate sections become an integrated, structurally sound,
full tower having multiple elevated platforms.
The second structure constitutes the upper tower section,
resembling a Tuna Tower. The top tower is mounted to the platform
of the half tower through complementary and axially aligned leg
members and ladders. The ladders mounting to the top tower can be
designed with a bottom half having steps and an upper half being
open, which allows for a boater to step through support members to
the upper platform or deck. The ladders and leg frames have
mounting pads or flanges welded to their bottom ends. The mounting
pads are used to mount the ladders and leg frame members to the
platform of the half tower. As mentioned above, the platform has
been reinforced using one of alternative methods in the areas which
secure and support the second tower section.
The top tower section further comprises an additional platform,
which is supported by an additional generally horizontal framework
located around the periphery of the second platform. As with the
half tower platform, the additional platform could also incorporate
internal reinforcing members, plates or flanges. The upper tower
platform is secured to its ladder and frame members in similar
fashion.
To provide stability to the vessel and further maintain a center of
gravity for the boat hull, the legs and ladders of the platforms
generally converge in vertical orientation from the lower boat deck
to the uppermost tower section, and therefore platform of the top
tower has a smaller surface area than the platform of the half
tower. The platform of the top tower can also be equipped with wire
distribution channels which allow electrical wires or cables to be
laid in various locations on the platform to provide a variety of
functions. These include steering gear, hydraulic, pneumatic or
electrical power, voltage for navigation or cockpit lighting,
gauges, or the like. As a design option, the top tower can be
further equipped with an auxiliary seat and drive control console.
Thus, a user may operate the boat from the top of the top tower if
desired.
The towers are most likely mounted to the boat at a position over
the helm or cockpit console area. Thus, wiring from the console is
extended through wiring distribution devices on the half and top
towers, and upwards through integral channels to appropriate
communication or navigational devices.
In accordance with these and other objects which will become
apparent hereinafter, the instant invention will now be described
with particular reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1a illustrates a front perspective view of the lower half
tower of the instant invention.
FIG. 1b illustrates a front perspective view of the upper tower
section of the instant invention.
FIG. 1c depicts a front perspective view of the full tower
conversion, with the top tower structure mounted onto the original
half tower structure.
FIG. 2a shows a rear perspective view of the lower half tower of
the instant invention.
FIG. 2b illustrates a rear perspective view of the upper tower
section of the instant invention.
FIG. 2c illustrates a rear perspective view of the full tower
conversion, with the top tower structure mounted onto the bottom
tower structure.
FIG. 3a shows a right side plan view of the half tower of the
instant invention.
FIG. 3b shows a right side plan view of the upper tower section of
the instant invention.
FIG. 3c shows a right side plan view of the full tower conversion,
with the top tower structure mounted onto the bottom tower
structure.
FIG. 4a shows a front plan view of the lower half tower structure
of the instant invention.
FIG. 4b shows a front plan view of the top tower section of the
instant invention.
FIG. 4c shows a front plan view of the full tower conversion, with
the top tower structure mounted onto the bottom tower
structure.
FIG. 5 shows a top plan view of the full tower conversion, with the
top tower structure mounted onto the bottom tower structure.
FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a section of the boat hardtop,
with a recessed light fixture within the hardtop, a radar unit, and
antennas.
FIG. 7a shows an enlarged section of the recessed light fixture and
hardtop of FIG. 6.
FIG. 7b shows a sectional top plan view of the light fixture
installed within the hardtop.
FIG. 7c shows an enlarged section of the recessed light fixture and
hardtop of FIG. 6, as the light fixture is inserted within the
hardtop recess.
FIG. 8 shows a reinforcing plate installed within a section of the
boat hardtop and the area of the hardtop which receives a leg
flange.
FIG. 9 shows top plan view of the hardtop with internal channels
for receiving and housing.
FIG. 10a shows a rear perspective view of the completed conversion
tower.
FIG. 10b shows an enlarged perspective view of the right rear
ladders and platform section of the completed conversion tower.
FIG. 10c shows an enlarged perspective view of the left rear
ladders and platform section of the completed conversion tower.
FIG. 10d shows an enlarged perspective view of the right front leg
member and platform section of the completed conversion tower.
FIG. 10e shows an enlarged perspective view of the central rear
light and platform section of the completed conversion tower.
FIG. 11a shows an exploded perspective view of a platform of the
instant invention.
FIG. 11b shows an enlarged perspective view of the right front
light and reinforcement section of the central platform core of the
instant invention.
FIG. 11c shows and enlarged perspective view of the left front
light and reinforcement section of the central platform core of
instant invention.
FIG. 11d shows a perspective view of the central core of the
platform of the instant invention.
FIG. 11e shows an enlarged perspective view of the left rear ladder
and reinforcement section of the central platform core of the
instant invention.
FIG. 11f shows an enlarged perspective view of the rear center
light section of the central core platform of the instant
invention.
FIG. 12 shows a cross-sectional view of a reinforced platform
section mating a lower tower leg member to an upper tower leg
member in accordance with the instant invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
FIG. 1a shows a front perspective view of the lower half tower 10
as it would appear on a boat. The bottom tower structure 10 is
directly mounted onto deck section and gunwales of a boat. In most
desired configurations, the tower platform would cover the helm,
control console, and portion of the cockpit area of the vessel. As
shown, the bottom tower structure 10 is comprised of a pair of
support ladders 12 located at the aft section of the lower half
tower 10. The ladders 12 are mounted to the boat in a conventional
manner, using appropriate pads, flanged ends, or mounting plates
14. The fore or bow side of the half tower 10 comprises a plurality
of leg members 16, also having flanged ends or mounting plates 17.
As shown in one embodiment, there are a pair of fore leg members
16, each having three (3) discrete leg elements. It is
contemplated, however, that a greater or lesser number of leg
elements could be utilized, depending on design choices and vessel
configurations, as the instant invention is applicable of a variety
of boat and yachts. These include, for example, express cruisers,
sport yachts, fly bridge, sedan cruisers and the like. The precise
number of leg elements utilized depends on shape and configuration
of the boat hull, cockpit and helm area, cabin roof and decks. It
is contemplated that each leg frame member 16 and the leg elements
will be mounted to a different location on a boat, so as to provide
further stability for the half tower 10. As shown, a first half
tower platform 18 is securely mounted to, and supported by, the
ladders 12 and leg members 16 at opposite ends from the mounting
plates 14, 17. As discussed above, the hard top platform 18 can
incorporate a one piece fiberglass core, or two piece fiberglass
layers over rectangular or tubular aluminum members. The platform
18 is structurally sound so as to support boat occupants,
communication, navigation and/or fishing equipment. As would be
apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, other rigid platform
could be utilized in the instant invention.
In alternative embodiments, first elevated deck or platform 18 is
supported by, and secured to, a generally horizontal metal
framework, which constitutes a separate tubular or rectangular
metal frame corresponding generally to the shape of the platform
and inset from its periphery. The ladders and legs are secured to
the horizontal framework in conventional means, including welding,
using hardware, or bonding techniques. In alternative embodiments,
the platform can include integral reinforcement members within the
molded fiberglass top, such as metal plates or flanges, internal
tubular or rectangular metal braces, or the like. The half tower
legs or ladders are then secured directly to the hard top.
At the location where the ladders 12 mount to the first platform
18, there are cut-out sections 19 in the platform which can provide
generally semi-circular insets or voids in the corner areas of the
hard top to allow a person climbing the ladder to upper levels to
pass through or around the platform unobstructed. The platforms can
also contain further voids, windows or holes in other areas, such
as its center, for mounting satellite or radar units, accessory
electronics or hardware, or the like. The cut-outs 19 have a size
and shape to allow a person to comfortably fit through. As shown, a
variety of devices may be mounted onto the top of the first
platform 18. For example, a radar antenna can be mounted onto the
first platform 18. It is contemplated that the first platform 18 is
equipped with recessed areas to receive fixtures for navigational
lights, cockpit lights, or electronic devices along the edges of
the platform, as well as internal channels for routing necessary
electrical wiring, cabling, hydraulic or pneumatic lines, or
similar hardware. Additionally, it is contemplated that the ladders
12 and the leg members 16 may be hollow and tubular, with internal
channels, so as to allow for routing the necessary wiring or
cables.
FIG. 1b illustrates a front perspective view of a top tower section
20 of the instant invention. The top tower structure 20 is
specially designed with custom components and functional ability,
such that the entire unit can be directly mounted onto the original
half tower 10 of a vessel. It is to be appreciated that the
original boat was either purchased with the half tower in original
manufacturing as OEM equipment, or the half tower of the instant
invention was added to the boat later. In either event, once the
boat owner desires to upgrade the vessel and tower, and install a
complete, full tower with multiple elevated platforms, the instant
invention accomplishes that goal. Second upper tower section 20
fulfills this need, and "converts" the original half tower to a
full Tuna Tower or alternative full tower design. This is
accomplished by the complementary and interfacing design features
of upper tower section 20, and the specially designed mating
hardware components of the separate sections.
Upper tower section 20 is placed over and secured to first platform
18 of the bottom tower structure 10 utilizing ladders 22 and leg
members 27. The ladders 22 and leg members 27 are mounted to the
bottom tower structure 10 through the use of mounting pads 24 on
the base of the ladders 22 and mounting pads 26 on the base of the
leg members 27. The mounting pads 24, 26 allow the ladders 24 and
leg members 27 to be quickly and easily mounted to the bottom tower
structure 10. The mounting pads 24, 26 may have any shape necessary
to maximize effectiveness, however a key aspect of this invention
is that the mounting flanges, plates, pads and bolting hardware are
precisely aligned and mated with corresponding structure of the
lower half tower 10. Thus, the lower termination points of the
ladders 22 and support legs 27 of upper tower section 20, are
aligned with structurally reinforced areas of the lower tower
platform 18, ladders 12 and support legs 16 of lower half tower 10.
All ladders can be coaxially aligned, and certain leg elements can
also be coaxially aligned. Ladders 22 are further aligned directly
over the cut-outs 19 in the first platform 18 so to accomplish the
above, and to allow a user to climb up the ladders 12 on the bottom
tower structure 10, through the cut-outs 19, and continue climbing
up the ladders 22 on the top tower structure 20. It is contemplated
that additional bracing mechanisms 23, 25 may be utilized between
the leg frames 27 and the ladders 22 to add structural rigidity to
the upper tower structure 20. It is further contemplated that a
second platform 28 will be mounted between the leg frames 27 and
the ladders 22. As shown, the rungs of the ladders 22 on the upper
tower structure 20 cease at the level where the second platform 28
is mounted. Thus, the user can climb up the ladders 22 and step
onto the second support platform 28, which acts as an elevated hard
top and floor or standing platform for the uppermost redundant
drive station 30. It is further contemplated that a drive console
30 may be mounted near the top of the ladders 22 and the leg frames
27, and if desired additional aluminum or metal tubing can act as
framework. The drive console 30 will further have a sun or
equipment cover 32, to protect the user from the elements. The
additional cover 32 can be a fabric bimini top, or alternative hard
top, and either type can be reinforced to mount accessory equipment
on the top thereof as shown in FIG. 1b.
Second platform 28 also may be equipped with recessed fixtures for
LEDs along the edges as well as internal channels for routing the
necessary electrical wiring. Additionally, it is contemplated that
the ladders 22 and the leg frames 27 may be hollow and tubular so
as to allow for routing the necessary electrical wiring or cables.
Such electrical wiring, hydraulic or other cabling will extend to
the drive station and console 30 to allow a captain to operate the
boat and navigate from the uppermost elevated station. Optional
conventional equipment includes seating, steering wheels, throttles
and an instrument panel.
FIG. 1c depicts a front perspective view of the completed
conversion to full tower 40, with the upper tower section 20
mounted onto lower half tower 10 through the use of mounting plates
26, 24. It will be appreciated that alternative mounting components
and techniques can be utilized, including interlocking arms,
recessed receivers, and welding.
FIG. 2a shows a rear perspective view of the bottom tower structure
10 as it would appear on a boat. FIG. 2a provides a further
representation of the location and shape of the cut-outs 19 located
on the first platform 18.
FIG. 2b shows a rear perspective view of the top tower structure 20
as it would appear on a boat.
FIG. 2c shows a rear perspective view of the complete conversion to
full tower 40 with the top tower structure 20 mounted onto the
bottom tower structure 10.
FIG. 3a illustrates a right side plan view of the bottom tower
structure 10 as it would appear on a boat. FIG. 3a provides a
further representation of the shape and length of the ladders 12
and leg members 16.
FIG. 3b shows a right side plan view of the top tower section 20 as
it would appear on a boat.
FIG. 3c shows a right side plan view of the completed conversion to
full tower 40 with the top tower structure 20 mounted onto the
bottom tower structure 10.
FIG. 4a depicts a front plan view of the half tower 10 as it would
appear on a boat.
FIG. 4b shows a front plan view of the upper tower section 20 as it
would appear on a boat.
FIG. 4c shows a front plan view of the completed conversion to full
tower 40.
FIG. 5 depicts a top plan view of full tower 40.
FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a section of the boat
hardtop 50 of the instant invention, with a recessed light fixture
52 within the hardtop, a radar unit 54, and antennas 56 mounted on
hardtop 50.
FIG. 7a shows an enlarged section of the recessed light fixture 52
installed within hardtop 50 of FIG. 6.
FIG. 7b shows a sectional top plan view of the light fixture 52
installed within the hardtop 50. The light fixture includes an
electronic module and LEDs 54 as well as lens 56. Electrical wires
and conductive lines 58 are shown within the hardtop 50.
FIG. 7c shows an enlarged section of the recessed light fixture 52
and hardtop 50 of FIG. 6, as the light fixture 52 is inserted
within the hardtop recess 60. The electronic module 54 and lens 56
are also illustrated.
FIG. 8 shows a reinforcing plate 62 installed within a section of
the boat hardtop and the mounting area 64 of the hardtop which
receives a leg flange as discussed above. The reinforcing plates
can be of any thickness required as known to one of ordinary skill
in the art, and is integrally formed within the fiberglass top
during the manufacturing process utilizing known techniques for
molds, laminates, fiberglass formation, pouring composites and
thermoplastics, shaping and the like. The plates can be made from
materials such as steel, structural aluminum or composites as a
matter of design choice.
FIG. 9 shows top plan view of the hardtop 501 with internal
channels 66 for receiving and housing internal electrical wiring,
cabling for steering systems, communication lines, coaxial cables
and the like. Also shown are integral reinforcing circular plates
68 which are coaxially aligned to support the leg members of
conversion tower units.
FIG. 10 Illustrates
With respect to FIG. 10a, this view illustrates a rear perspective
view of a complete conversion tower incorporating the instant
invention. FIGS. 10b and 10c, depict the enlarged perspective view
of the left and right rear ladders and platform sections, and the
mounting assembly there between. Lower ladder leg members 90 and 92
are coaxially aligned and structurally secured to upper leg members
94 and 96. Reinforcing plates 98 are integral components of the
hard top-platform assembly, and provide the structural
reinforcement and support for the upper ladders, upper legs and
upper tower assembly.
FIG. 10d illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the front
right leg member and the front right platform section of the
completed tower assembly. Upper leg member 102 and lower leg member
104 meet in coaxial alignment with structural reinforcing plate 106
interposed therein. Also shown is an addition light fixture 108 and
internal channel 110.
FIG. 10e shows light fixture 98 mounted within the central core of
the platform and into the receiving channel 100.
In reference to FIG. 11a, the hard top 70 is generally depicted in
an exploded perspective view. Hard top 70 is generally comprised of
a three part platform in this embodiment, constituting the
underside fiberglass surface or skin 72, the central core 74, and
the upper most top surface or skin 76. These surfaces can be
fiberglass or alternatively other composites or materials in
specific embodiments.
The central core 74 of the platform/hard top includes internal
channels 78 which, as referenced above, are utilized for the
running of conduits, electrical wiring, hydraulic lines and the
like.
FIG. 11b illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the front
right section of the internal and central core of the platform. An
electrical lighting fixture 80 is depicted for insertion into the
central core 74, in a manner as described with respect to FIG. 7a
through 7c above. Also shown is reinforcing plate 82, which can be
selected from metal plates, pads, flanges, or internal braces as
discussed above. Reinforcing plates or pads 82, depicted in both
FIGS. 11b and 11c, provide the structurally supporting interface
between the front leg members of the lower tower units and upper
tower units which are mounted to the hard top and platform
assemblies.
FIG. 11d illustrates a perspective view of the central core 74 of
the platform, which comprises the center of the hard top. Also
shown are the internal channels 78 to accommodate various
electrical and/or mechanical equipment.
FIG. 11e illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the left rear
ladder and reinforcement section of the central platform core for
the conversion tower. Reinforcing plates 84 accommodate the ladder
pads, flanged ends, or mounting plates located at the ends of the
ladder legs, as illustrated in FIGS. 1a and 1b. The reinforcing
plates again provide the structural interface and support within
the hard top 70, and allow the lower ladder sections and the upper
ladder sections to be structurally secured to one another in a
correct and predetermined coaxial alignment.
FIG. 11f illustrates the lighting fixture 80 for insertion into the
rear center light section of the central core platform, and into
the receiving channel.
FIG. 12 illustrates a cross sectional view of the mounting and
manufacturing assembly which secure the leg members of the lower
tower sections to the leg members of the upper tower sections. This
includes the ladder legs as well as the separate legs. Lower tower
tube or pipe 110 includes mounting flange or base 112. Upper tower
tube or pipe 114 includes mounting flange or base 116. The mounting
flange or base of upper leg member 114 and lower leg member 110 are
secured to one another utilizing hardware 118. As will be apparent
to one of ordinary skill in the art, alternative mounting hardware
can be incorporated into the instant invention, such as threaded
bolts, nuts, welded rods or any other equivalent structure. The
terminating ends of upper tower leg member 114 and lower tower leg
member 110 can include appropriate mounting pads or shaped flanges
120. The mounting pads or bases can be secured to the respective
leg members utilizing appropriate welds, bonds, or alternatively
can be manufactured as integral components and terminating in
flanged ends of the leg members. This would be accomplished through
appropriate designs for tooling and molds used in manufacturing the
tubular leg members.
The hard top is depicted, which includes the top fiberglass surface
or skin 122, the bottom fiberglass surface or skin 124, and the
central core platform 126 of the instant invention. In a particular
embodiment, the core platform is manufactured from an appropriate
foam composition as well known in the manufacturing industry.
Alternative foams are available of different densities and chemical
compositions, including appropriate structural foams where desired.
The central core could also be solid fiberglass if desired, or
certain sections thereof.
Also indicated is an example of a reinforcing mounting plate 130,
which provides the structural support and interface between the
lower leg member 110 and upper leg member 114. The reinforcing
plate 130 would be manufactured from an appropriate structural
material, including various metal compositions, steel, alloys and
the like. The platform's integral reinforcing member 130 is
positioned between the mounting pads, flange or base 120 of the
upper and lower leg members, all coaxially aligned with one
another, and generally centered with respect thereto.
In alternative embodiments, reinforcing members 130 can be of any
particular geometric shape, the important element being to provide
the structural support and/or internal brace to provide a secure
foundation between the leg members of the lower tower unit and the
upper tower unit, whether the leg members are individual members,
or paired leg members of any desired ladder.
The instant invention has been shown and described herein in what
is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiment. It
is recognized, however, that departures may be made therefrom
within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications
will occur to a person skilled in the art.
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